Before leaving Hanoi, we were told we had to do a cruise on Halong Bay. Instead of the busy areas, we booked a 2 day 1 night cruise on Bai Tu Long bay with Paloma Cruises.

Vietnam loves their limos. We were picked up at our hotel in the old quarter and were driven to the boat after a stop at a pearl farm/shop. Here we were introduced to the three types of oysters in Halong Bay - Akoya, Tahitian and South Sea pearls. There cultured pearls take 2-3 years, 4 years and 9 years to create a pearl. After this science lesson, we boarded our cruise where we were served lunch, including some delicious oysters.

Next up was a boat ride to a local fishing village. We were taken in a bamboo boat rowed by local villagers. Partway through, the boat owners dog decided to join the ride and Coco became the center of attention. The rock formations on the bay were created by underwater volcanoes and are primarily limestone.

On our way back, we were shown how pearls are cultured and then went back to the boat to enjoy a happy hour and some relaxation time before dinner (and a cooking class where we were shown how to make spring rolls). Peter - our guide on the cruise provided us with some awesome tidbits about the bay and the people who live there - there are maybe about 20 fishing families in the area, the water is filled with jellyfish and King cobras roam the waters freely. Which is why, no swimming!

After a good night's sleep, we started this morning super early with a Tai Chi class on the sundeck. I have never done Tai Chi before and it was so amazing doing it on the water. With a warmup out of the way, we were taken out to visit a cave in the bay and a private beach. The views were breathtaking. Here are a few clicks.

And now, we are on the way to the airport - ready to head to our next destination - Da Nang and Hoi An. That's where my next post will be from!